Statement on Nantucket Vandalism

We are saddened, but not disheartened, by the attack on our beautiful and historic African Meeting House on Nantucket. We deeply value the outpouring of support expressed by members of the Nantucket community, and by our friends and colleagues here in Boston and across the country. Equally important, we appreciate the tireless efforts of the Nantucket Police Department, which rightly describes this senseless act of vandalism as a hate crime.

While the vile message was quickly washed away, it will take time for us to heal from this assault on our sense of community and security.

2018 marks the 200th anniversary of Frederick Douglass’ birth. It also commemorates the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King. We must stand in solidarity against those who aim to tear us apart. Our voices must be louder and stronger than the voices of hatred. .

Book Discussion with Michael Twitty

Join Michael Twitty as he discusses his book, “The Cooking Gene,” with Laura Mandel, JArts Executive Director, about his personal mission to document the connection between food history and his family history from Africa to America, from slavery to freedom.

Michael Twitty, award-winning food writer, independent scholar, and culinary historian, describes himself as outside the mainstream and “four time blessed” – “large of body, gay, African American and Jewish.” Michael champions with what he has termed “identity cooking.” Identity cooking isn’t about fusion; rather it is how we construct complex identities that we express through food and taste. Kosher/Soul is about melding the histories, tastes, flavors, and Diasporic wisdom of being Black and being Jewish, and exploring how both cultures express values through the plate.

Live Cooking Demo & Discussion with Michael Twitty

Cooking demo and dinner discussion at the New England Center for Arts and Technology!

Copies of Michael’s book The Cooking Gene are available for $25 (a $4 savings!) and can be purchased at checkout.

Michael Twitty, award-winning food writer, independent scholar, and culinary historian, describes himself as outside the mainstream and “four time blessed” – “large of body, gay, African American and Jewish.” Michael champions with what he has termed “identity cooking.” Identity cooking isn’t about fusion; rather it is how we construct complex identities that we express through food and taste. Kosher/Soul is about melding the histories, tastes, flavors, and Diasporic wisdom of being Black and being Jewish, and exploring how both cultures express values through the plate.

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Image credit: Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library

Exhibits & Collections

Rare prints, photographs, artifacts, books and much more

Don't miss unique displays in some of the nation's preeminent National Historic Landmarks located in Boston and Nantucket. The above image commemorates the beginning of Frederick Douglass’ extraordinary career as an abolitionist and orator. It is now on view in Boston's Abiel Smith School and Nantucket's African Meeting House.

Interpretive Talks & Tours

African Meeting House experiences connect the past to the present

Hear stories about pioneering advocates for freedom and justice at MAAH's Boston campus on Beacon Hill and our Nantucket campus at Five Corners. Explore beautifully restored historic sites, where everyone can learn about the richness and diversity of the American experience.

Historic Preservation

Unearthing powerful tools and engaging future generations

MAAH's archeological efforts have unearthed a bountiful of artifacts, moved whole building structures to pour new foundations, and accomplished exterior stabilizations, including one of the oldest African American homes in the country (c1774) and the oldest black church still standing in the US (1806).

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Image credit: MAAH

Programs for Teachers

Based on the importance of community in education

Our Teacher Summer Institutes feature leading scholars who present to K-12 educators and college faculty from around the region. Our cohort programs come from a better understanding of how people learn. One of the key factors in learning is the impact of community — the people whom we learn with and from.

'Freedom Rising' Collection

Learn Online now @ Google Cultural Institute

For nearly five decades, MAAH’s education programs, collections and events have interpreted the economic, literary, educational, political, social, and cultural enterprises of early black communities. Now you can connect online to history from the Colonial period through the 19th century. Above: Henry A. Monroe (1845-1913), 54th Massachusetts Regiment Drummer Boy.

Programs for Students

MLK Scholars and Intern Programs across grade levels

MAAH's series of hands-on, interactive activities and programs provide a history learning laboratory in which students of all ages and from across the region explore, transform, and grapple with their understanding of the past in order to support cultural, historical and visual literacy development.

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Image credit: Almont Green

Access Member Benefits

Be invited to exclusive member previews and private events

Give yourself, friends, and family members the gift of MAAH membership. Be among the first to receive notices about lectures, conversations, concerts, and performances in Boston and Nantucket. Enjoy exclusive access to previews of our exhibits and collections, private openings, and film screenings. If you are not a member yet and want to stay connected, join today.

Join Our Mailing List

Get MAAH e-news and updates delivered directly to your In box

If you want to be in the know about all things MAAH, sign up for our e-blasts to receive invitations and notices about all of our exhibits and collections, lectures and conversations, music and spoken word concerts, film and documentary screenings, and much more. Stay connected and informed about Boston and Nantucket news.

Find Unique Gifts

Take a little history home with you from our Museum Store!

The Museum Store offers a wide array of items for adults and children that represent and reflect the Museum’s distinctive collection. Celebrate the enduring vitality of African-American culture as you support the Museum by purchasing your souvenirs and classroom materials, or your birthday, wedding, graduation, holiday, or office party gifts in our store.

MAAH Remembers

The many sides of Douglass

Take the Frederick Douglass bust created by sculptor Lloyd Lillie for a spin. Hover your mouse over the image (left) until the arrow turns into a hand, then click and drag your mouse left or right for a 360-degree view of this inspirational work of art. Image credit: Almont Greene.